Many Canadians encounter carcinogens in their workplace or environment. Sometimes this exposure will cause cancer. Recognition of cancer from occupational or environmental causes is difficult because, in most cases, these cancers cannot be distinguished from other cancers.

This course teaches primary health care providers how to recognize occupational and environmental cancers and how to respond to this finding. Insights are provided into how the recognition of occupational and environmental cancer risks can lead to prevention. Case studies will highlight key points and allow participants to apply lessons learned.

Access to numerous free resources including online occupational and environmental cancer links, and Screening and Detailed Exposure History Questionnaires, is also provided.

This e-course was developed by members of the National Committee on Environmental and Occupational Exposures (NCEOE) in cooperation with CCOHS and funded by the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer (CPAC) through the Primary Prevention Action Group (PP-AG).

Authoritative carcinogen lists, by chemical, occupation and cancer site

Components of an exposure history

How to interpret an exposure history

How to follow up on your conclusions

Radon and asbestos case studies

Cancer clusters

Upon completion of this course, the participant will be able to:

Name common types of occupational and environmental cancer

Describe how carcinogens are identified

Find and use published lists of carcinogens

Take and interpret an exposure history

Identify steps to take if an occupational or environmental cancer is suspected or your patient is being exposed to a carcinogen

Assess a cancer cluster report

Apply the recognition process to other occupational and environmental diseases

Target Audience

Anyone with an interest in learning about the recognition and prevention of occupational and environmental cancer.

Delivery Method

This course is delivered as an on-line e-learning course. All you need is a computer, access to the Internet - and you are ready to go! This e-learning course is designed to help you learn at your own pace and in your own environment at your own convenience.